Raymond N. Sussel

Meet Our Donor

Q. Mr. Sussel, how did you first become involved with The North American Menopause Society (NAMS)?

A. Many years ago, my company was given the opportunity to manage the NAMS investment assets, and I have been the primary financial advisor all these years. In addition, my company has implemented and currently manages a retirement plan for NAMS employees. The relationship has expanded over the years to include other financial services, and many NAMS employees have utilized our expertise for personal investment management and financial planning. We enjoy working with NAMS as an organization and also as individual employees.

Q. What made you decide to make a contribution to the NAMS Foundation?

A. Donating to NAMS gives me the opportunity to support an organization that has such an impact on so many lives. It also gives me great pleasure to contribute to the success of an organization that I have seen grow substantially over the years, and I hope to see that growth continue.

Q. Can you tell us a little about yourself and your career path?

A. I began working as a financial advisor in 1986 with The Equitable Life Assurance Society. In 1992, AXA purchased the majority of Equitable, and our firm became AXA Advisors here in the United States. Primarily, my focus is on assisting individuals and small- and medium-sized businesses and organizations with their financial planning, retirement planning, and estate planning. I also spent 10 years hiring and training new associates. In 1999, I left management to focus on my clients and have been doing so ever since.

Q. What would you say to other potential donors to encourage them to donate to support NAMS activities?

A. After attending several NAMS functions, I was impressed by this well-run organization successfully fulfilling its Mission to educate so many women. Partnering with NAMS and helping to further its cause allows us to give back to an organization that has given so much.

Q. And, finally, how do you hope your donation will help further the NAMS Mission of promoting the health and quality of life of women through an understanding of menopause?

A. As I mentioned earlier, any donation, large or small, will assist NAMS in achieving its goals. In the past, through The AXA Foundation, any contribution that we have been able to make has been 100% matched. I encourage those who are associated with larger companies to enquire about matching gifts, as this is a great way to enhance a donation to an outstanding nonprofit organization.